Chicken Empanadas Recipe

Chicken empanadas are a delicious, savory pastry filled with seasoned chicken, vegetables, and sometimes cheese, all wrapped in a crispy, golden dough. These versatile hand pies are a popular dish in many Latin American countries, making for a perfect snack, appetizer, or meal. Whether you're preparing them for a casual family dinner, a party, or a picnic, chicken empanadas are sure to be a crowd-pleaser. Follow this easy recipe to make delicious homemade chicken empanadas, along with tips for variations, fillings, and presentation ideas!

What Are Chicken Empanadas?

Empanadas are a type of turnover that typically feature a savory filling encased in dough. They can be baked or fried, and their fillings can range from beef, chicken, and seafood to vegetarian options like cheese or spinach. Chicken empanadas, in particular, are made with seasoned shredded chicken, often combined with sautéed vegetables, spices, and sometimes cheese for extra richness. These pockets of flavor are perfect for on-the-go meals, snacks, or parties, offering a convenient yet satisfying bite.

Ingredients List for Chicken Empanadas

For the Dough:

• 2 ½ cups all-purpose flour
• ½ cup unsalted butter (chilled and cut into small cubes)
• 1 teaspoon salt
• ½ teaspoon sugar
• 1 egg (beaten)
• ⅓ cup cold water (plus more as needed)
• 1 tablespoon white vinegar (helps tenderize the dough)

For the Chicken Filling:

• 2 cups cooked chicken (shredded, rotisserie chicken works well)
• 1 tablespoon olive oil
• 1 medium onion (finely chopped)
• 2 cloves garlic (minced)
• 1 small bell pepper (diced, any color)
• ½ teaspoon ground cumin
• 1 teaspoon smoked paprika (or regular paprika)
• ½ teaspoon ground oregano
• ¼ cup tomato sauce (or tomato paste)
• ½ cup chicken broth (or water, to moisten the filling)
• Salt and pepper to taste
• ¼ cup chopped fresh cilantro (optional, for extra flavor)

For Assembly:

• 1 egg (beaten, for egg wash)
• Sesame seeds or poppy seeds (optional, for garnish)

Additional Ingredients List (Optional Add-ons)

• ½ cup shredded cheese (cheddar, mozzarella, or Monterey Jack for a cheesy filling)
• ¼ cup chopped olives (green or black, for a tangy, briny flavor)
• ¼ teaspoon red pepper flakes (for a spicy kick)
• ¼ cup chopped hard-boiled eggs (a traditional addition in some regions)
• 2 tablespoon raisins (adds a touch of sweetness, common in some Latin American variations)

Substitutions and Variations

This recipe is highly customizable, allowing you to experiment with different ingredients based on your preferences:

• Dough Shortcut: If you’re short on time, you can use store-bought puff pastry, pie dough, or empanada wrappers instead of making the dough from scratch.
• Vegetarian Option: Substitute the chicken with a plant-based protein like tofu, beans, or sautéed vegetables like spinach and mushrooms.
• Gluten-Free Dough: Use gluten-free flour or a gluten-free empanada dough recipe to make these suitable for gluten-sensitive eaters.
• Cheesy Empanadas: For a creamier filling, add shredded cheese like cheddar, Monterey Jack, or mozzarella to the chicken mixture.
• Herbs and Spices: You can change the flavor profile by adding your favorite herbs, such as thyme, rosemary, or parsley, or by increasing the spiciness with chili powder or cayenne pepper.

Step-by-Step Cooking Instructions

Step 1: Prepare the Dough

1. Combine the dry ingredients: In a large mixing bowl, whisk together the flour, salt, and sugar.
2. Cut in the butter: Add the cold butter cubes and use a pastry cutter or your fingers to work the butter into the flour mixture until it resembles coarse crumbs.
3. Add the wet ingredients: In a separate small bowl, whisk the egg, water, and vinegar together. Gradually add the wet mixture to the flour, mixing with a fork until the dough starts to come together.
4. Knead the dough: Turn the dough onto a lightly floured surface and knead gently until smooth, about 2-3 minutes. Add more water if the dough feels dry. Form the dough into a ball, wrap it in plastic wrap, and refrigerate for at least 30 minutes to allow it to rest.

Step 2: Make the Chicken Filling

1. Sauté the vegetables: Heat the olive oil in a large skillet over medium heat. Add the chopped onion and bell pepper, and cook for 4-5 minutes until softened. Stir in the garlic and cook for another 30 seconds until fragrant.
2. Add the spices: Sprinkle the cumin, paprika, and oregano into the pan, stirring to coat the vegetables with the spices.
3. Add the chicken: Stir in the shredded chicken, followed by the tomato sauce and chicken broth. Let the mixture simmer for about 5 minutes, stirring occasionally. Add salt and pepper to taste.
4. Finish the filling: Once the mixture has thickened, remove the skillet from heat and stir in the chopped cilantro (if using). Let the filling cool slightly before assembling the empanadas.

Step 3: Assemble the Empanadas

1. Roll out the dough: On a lightly floured surface, roll out the chilled dough to about ⅛-inch thickness. Use a round cookie cutter or a glass (about 4-6 inches in diameter) to cut out circles of dough.
2. Fill the empanadas: Place 1-2 tablespoons of the chicken filling in the center of each dough circle. If using optional add-ons like cheese or olives, add them on top of the chicken filling.
3. Seal the empanadas: Fold the dough over the filling to form a half-moon shape. Press the edges together with your fingers, then crimp the edges with a fork to seal tightly.
4. Brush with egg wash: Transfer the empanadas to a parchment-lined baking sheet. Brush each empanada with the beaten egg wash to give them a golden color during baking. Optionally, sprinkle sesame or poppy seeds on top for a decorative touch.

Step 4: Bake the Empanadas

1. Preheat the oven: Preheat your oven to 375°F (190°C).
2. Bake: Place the empanadas in the preheated oven and bake for 20-25 minutes, or until they are golden brown and crispy.
3. Cool and serve: Remove the empanadas from the oven and let them cool slightly before serving. Serve warm with your favorite dipping sauce.

How to Cook Chicken Empanadas: A Step-by-Step Guide

1. Prepare and chill the dough.
2. Cook the chicken filling with sautéed vegetables and spices.
3. Roll out the dough and cut circles.
4. Fill, fold, and seal the empanadas.
5. Brush with egg wash and bake until golden.

Common Mistakes to Avoid

• Overfilling the empanadas: Avoid overstuffing the empanadas, as it can cause them to burst open during baking. Stick to 1-2 tablespoons of filling per empanada.
• Not sealing the edges properly: Make sure to firmly press and crimp the edges with a fork to avoid the filling leaking out during baking.
• Skipping the chilling step for the dough: Resting the dough in the fridge helps it become more pliable and easier to roll out, preventing it from shrinking while baking.
• Not allowing the filling to cool: Adding hot filling to the dough can make it harder to seal and may cause the dough to soften too much.

Serving and Presentation Tips

Chicken empanadas are perfect for casual gatherings, appetizers, or a hearty snack. Here are some serving suggestions:

• Serve with dipping sauces: Offer a variety of dipping sauces like chimichurri, salsa, sour cream, or guacamole to complement the empanadas.
• Pair with a salad: For a balanced meal, serve the empanadas with a fresh salad of greens, avocado, and tomatoes, drizzled with a light vinaigrette.
• Accompany with rice and beans: Turn this snack into a full meal by serving it alongside seasoned rice and black beans for a complete Latin-inspired dinner.

How to Serve Chicken Empanadas

• Appetizer platter: Serve the empanadas on a large platter with dipping sauces in small bowls for an appetizer or party spread.
• Lunchbox or picnic: Empanadas are portable, making them ideal for lunchboxes, picnics, or outdoor gatherings. Wrap them in foil or parchment paper for easy transport.
• Individual servings: For a casual meal, serve two or three empanadas per person with a side of salad or beans.

Presentation Ideas for Chicken Empanadas

• Crimped edges: Use a fork to create decorative crimped edges for a traditional look.
• Garnish with herbs: Sprinkle chopped cilantro or parsley over the top before serving for a fresh, vibrant garnish.
• Decorative toppings: Add sesame seeds or poppy seeds on top for a crunchy, decorative touch.

Chicken Empanadas Recipe Tips

• Chill the dough: Chilling the dough before rolling it out makes it easier to handle and prevents it from becoming too soft.
• Make-ahead tip: You can prepare the empanadas ahead of time and freeze them unbaked. Bake them directly from frozen, adding a few extra minutes to the baking time.
• Double the batch: Empanadas freeze well, so consider making a double batch and freezing half for a quick snack or meal later.

Frequently Asked Questions (FAQs)

Can I freeze chicken empanadas?
Yes! Unbaked empanadas can be frozen for up to 3 months. Freeze them on a baking sheet until solid, then transfer them to a freezer bag. When ready to bake, you can cook them directly from frozen—just add an extra 5-7 minutes to the baking time.

Can I fry the empanadas instead of baking them?
Absolutely! You can fry the empanadas in hot oil (about 350°F/175°C) for 3-4 minutes per side, or until golden and crispy. Drain on paper towels before serving.

What kind of chicken should I use?
Shredded rotisserie chicken is a great shortcut, but you can also use poached, grilled, or baked chicken breast or thighs. Leftover chicken works perfectly in this recipe.

Can I make the dough gluten-free?
Yes, you can substitute all-purpose flour with gluten-free flour. Be sure to use a gluten-free flour blend that includes xanthan gum for structure.

What other fillings can I use?
Feel free to experiment with fillings like beef, pork, shrimp, cheese, or even vegetarian options like black beans, corn, and cheese.

Conclusion

Chicken empanadas are a delightful, versatile dish that’s perfect for any occasion. The combination of the flaky, golden crust and the savory, flavorful chicken filling makes these hand pies irresistible. With a few basic ingredients and easy steps, you can make homemade chicken empanadas that are both satisfying and fun to eat. Whether you bake them for a party, a picnic, or a family meal, they’re guaranteed to be a hit. Try this recipe, and enjoy the flavors of a classic Latin American treat from the comfort of your kitchen!

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